Make sure you pack a little patience in your carry-on luggage.
This Thanksgiving holiday travel period is expected to be the busiest in 15 years, federal officials said, as Americans ignore the recent government shutdown that paralyzed air travel across the country.
In total, more than 360,000 flights will take off from this week through Dec. 1, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
Traffic was expected to peak on Tuesday, with more than 52,000 flights scheduled to transport travelers to their parties.
The number of flights was expected to drop to just 25,611 on Thanksgiving Day before rising again for post-holiday travel. In a chart posted on X, the U.S. Department of Transportation estimated that 16.9 million people would fly this holiday week.
Los Angeles International Airport officials estimated 2.5 million travelers would pass through the airport from Nov. 20 through Monday. Sunday is expected to be the busiest day for travel, with more than 230,000 people passing through the terminals.
“Thanksgiving is one of LAX's most important travel periods as many of our guests connect with loved ones or embark on holiday trips,” said Courtney Moore, deputy executive director of strategy, innovation and experience for Los Angeles World Airports. “We've spent the year preparing to welcome our guests with more seamless experiences throughout the airport.”
The increase in travel comes just weeks after the federal decision. government shutdownforcing the FAA to cut air traffic throughout the country to relieve air traffic controllers.
While travelers may still feel nervous about potential delays, FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said in a press conference on Monday that they should “travel with confidence.”
“Thanks to the dedication of our air traffic controllers and every FAA employee, we are ready for the holiday rush and are proud to help travelers reach their friends and family during this important time of year,” Bedford said in a statement. statement. “I am deeply grateful to our entire FAA team. Even during a period of record traffic, their unwavering commitment keeps the system running safely.”
Travelers are advised to pack light through security and arrive at the airport early to avoid travel stress.
While California will be largely warm and sunny during the holidays, weather delays could still affect airports in certain parts of the country, including the New York area, JFK/LGA/EWR; Philadelphia, PHL; Houston, IAH/HOU; Memphis, Tennessee, MEM; and Dallas, DFW/DAL.
Here are some tips for survival:
